Valuable Tips for All Travelers

 

1. Make sure you have a signed, valid passport (and visas, if required). Also, before you travel, fill in the emergency information page of your passport.
2. Read the Consular Information Sheets (and Public Announcements of Travel Warnings, if applicable) for the countries you plan to visit.
3. Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs of the countries to which you are traveling. While in a foreign country, you are subject to its laws.
4. Make two copies of your passport identification page. This will facilitate replacement if your passport is lost or stolen. Leave one copy at home with friends or relatives. Carry the other with you in a separate place from your passport.
5. Leave a copy of your itinerary with family or friends at home so that you can be contacted in case of an emergency. Leave a copy of your medical and dental records with your family or contact person.
6. Do not leave your luggage unattended in public areas. Do not accept packages from strangers. Obtain a claim check for each piece of luggage you check.
7. If you plan to stay abroad for more than two weeks, upon arrival you should notify by phone or register in person with the U.S. embassy in the country you are visiting. This will facilitate communication in case someone contacts the embassy looking for you.
8. To avoid being a target of crime, try not to wear conspicuous clothing and expensive jewelry and do not carry excessive amounts of money or
   unnecessary credit cards.
9. Keep hotel and car keys on your person when traveling around.
10. In order to avoid violating local laws, deal only with authorized agents when you exchange money or purchase art or antiques. Be wary of con artists and alert of street gangs operating in large cities.
11. Be informed about your credit card balances and limits. In some countries, exceeding your limit may be cause for arrest.
12. Be familiar with your property and medical insurance. Are you covered for loss or theft abroad or in case of accident or illness?